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上
うえ (ue), じょう (jō)
above, on top, superior, previous
机の上に本があります。
There is a book on top of the desk.
general
Above, on top of something
天井の上に何か音がした。
I heard a sound above the ceiling.
Used to indicate position relative to something else.
general
Superior, better, higher in quality or rank
彼は上のクラスに進んだ。
He moved up to a higher class.
Often used to compare things or people in terms of quality or status.
general
Previous, prior (in time or sequence)
上の章を読んでください。
Please read the previous chapter.
Used to refer to something that came before in a sequence.
general
To go up, ascend (as a verb)
階段を上に上がる。
To go up the stairs.
When used as a verb, it means to move upward.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Usage
The word '上' is very versatile and can be used in many contexts, so pay attention to the context to understand its exact meaning.
Gold Rule
Positional Meaning
When '上' is used to indicate position, it typically means 'above' or 'on top of'.
Word Origin
Derived from Old Japanese 'ue', meaning 'above' or 'on top'. The kanji '上' is composed of '一' (one) and '丶' (dot), representing something on top of a line.
Usage Notes
Can function as a noun, adjective, suffix, or adverb depending on context. Often used in compound words and as a suffix to indicate superiority or precedence.
Word Breakdown
上
above, on top, superior
root和英辞典